Modern Birth Control Methods

Mirena continuously releases progestin called levonorgestrel and can remain in place five years or longer. This IUD can reduce heavy menstrual bleeding, which can be an issue for some women as they near menopause. The major side effect is some irregular bleeding.  Mirena has been FDA-approved to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in women who use intrauterine contraception as their method of birth control prevention. It is recommended for women who have had a child. This is a new indication for Mirena, which was approved by the FDA in 2000 as a contraceptive.

The copper IUD is a hormone-free, long-term reversible option that also prevents fertilization. It can be used for up to 10 years but isn't a good option if you experience heavy bleeding. IUDs are considered more than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy.

And, for those of you who prefer oral contraceptive pills as an short-term reversible birth control option, but need to avoid estrogen, then the "mini pills," which contain only progesterone hormone, may be indicated for you.

Barrier methods—there if you need them
Of course, you can always choose the protect-as-you-go option: barrier methods such as condoms (male or female), the cervical cap, diaphragm and spermicides. These are typically effective at preventing pregnancy 80 percent of the time (though spermicidal creams and jelly can improve their effectiveness), so they may be best if you're in a monogamous relationship and can generally predict when you're going to have intercourse. One caveat: If you're not in a monogamous relationship, add a condom to your contraceptive arsenal regardless of what you're using; it's the only thing shown to protect against most sexually transmitted infections—which can affect you no matter what your age!